(2004) by Anthony Hall and James Midgley, with chapters by Jo Beall, Mrigesh Bhatia and Elias Mossialos. A very accessible introduction to the often insufficiently-defined study of social policy in developing countries.

The authors cover a wide range of topics central to this area of study and practice. This textbook remains accessible by a varied audience and yet achieves considerable analytical depth.

The book is clearly written and makes ample use of examples. The authors also provide further reading lists, as well as a short glossary covering key concepts.

This is a completely revised update to the much-read "The Social Dimensions of Development" 1982 by Margaret Hardiman and James Midgley. The authors are all either former or current members of the Department of Social Policy at the London School of Economics and Political Science, teaching on the MSc Social Policy and Planning in Developing Countries.

Cover description:

'Throughout the world issues of social development have now taken centre stage. There is no more comprehensive and readable guide to the choices and conflicts of this global drama. This book is essential reading for all students and practitioners of social development - and for every World Bank economist' - David Piachaud, Professor of Social Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science

'Strong social policy is essential for sustainable growth. This book is an extremely useful overview of social policy issue for policy makers and anyone who wants to understand the true roots of successful sustainable development' - Ian Johnson, Vice President for Sustainable Development, The World Bank

This much-needed textbook fulfils a major gap in providing a complete up-to-date guide and introduction to the increasingly important role of social policy in the context of development processes and practice.

The authors introduce and explain the main conceptual debates; the most recent policy discussions and provide applied examples to illustrate the latest developments in the field.

Topics include:
- poverty
- rural development
- urban development
- education
- health
- social work
- social welfare
- international development and cooperation.

Social Policy for Development is essential reading for students and practitioners seeking a deeper understanding of the complex and multi-dimensional nature of poverty in the world today and the widening social policy agenda necessary to address it.

ANTHONY HALL is a Reader in Social Planning in Developing Countries at the London School of Economics and Political Science, and currently on secondment to the World Bank, Washington DC as Lead Social Development Specialist. JAMES MIDGLEY is Specht Professor of Public Social Services and Dean of the School of Social Welfare, University of California, Berkeley.